Val Verde County Commissioners Approve Referendums for Second Bridge on November Ballot

Val Verde County officials have taken a significant step towards addressing local infrastructure needs by unanimously voting to place two binding referendums on the November ballot. The proposals will allow citizens to voice their opinions on the necessity of a second bridge in the county and whether it should be located to the north or south. This decision, made during the Commissioners Court Regular Term Meeting on July 16, 2025, aims to engage the community in critical infrastructure planning.

Commissioner Garcia initiated the motion, emphasizing the importance of public input in determining the future of the county's transportation infrastructure. "This would be binding to the commissioner's court," he stated, highlighting that the outcome of the vote would directly influence the court's decisions. The court's unanimous approval reflects a collective commitment to ensuring that the voices of Val Verde County residents are heard.

The deadline for formalizing these items for the ballot is August 18, prompting the court to act swiftly. Officials will work on the wording for the ballot in the coming weeks to ensure clarity for voters.

In addition to the referendums, the meeting also touched on the upcoming budget for 2025-2026. The county anticipates a budget increase of approximately $2 million, with discussions around tax rates and salaries for elected officials. Notably, law enforcement and first responders are set to receive a 5% raise, while other elected officials will see a 3% increase.

As the county prepares for the November election and budget discussions, the decisions made during this meeting signal a proactive approach to addressing both infrastructure and fiscal responsibilities in Val Verde County. The outcomes of the upcoming referendums and budget decisions will be pivotal in shaping the county's future.